Fahrenheit 451
Written by: Ray Bradbury
Narrated by: Stephen Hoye
Length: 5 hours and 37 Minutes
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date: August 11, 2010
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Over the years, there have been some outstanding novels, which have withstood the test of time. While some have perished, others have gone on to be adapted into films and audiobooks. Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 is undoubtedly one of the best-recognized classics. This book, which was previously published in 1953, was written during the great book burning scandal in the United States. Although the writer later changed his tune, the previous statement is more intriguing. Now, the book is available in audiobook format and it is a real treat!
After sitting through the 5-hour and a half drama, it is undeniable that the audiobook excels the book and takes it to an entirely new level. Stephen Hoye, who is well renowned for his previous narrations, performs the vocals for Fahrenheit 451. Below, you will learn more about the audiobook adaptation.
The Narration
Stephen Hoye is well known for producing high-quality audiobooks and has won numerous awards. He is a graduate of London’s Guildhall and has many notable audiobook successes under his belt. Hoye’s tremendous ability to bring each character to life, in each narration project that he is involved in, is absolutely astonishing.
The key to Hoye’s success is his dedicating ability to break each book down, in a way that grants him the opportunity to familiarize himself with every aspect of the author’s work. Hoye possesses the traits that are necessary to engage the listener, so they are pulled into each scene in an imaginary way.
Hoye should be commended for his ability to allow the listener to draw their own conclusion, by using their imagination. His narration in each of his audiobooks inspires those that just do not have time to sit down and read a complete book from cover to cover. His narration of Fahrenheit 451 is an exception within itself. Hoye brings the book-burning fireman, Guy Montag, to light, along with each character, so the listener can visualize their personality and deep thought.
With each character, Stephen adjusts his accent and gets into the role. This makes it incredibly easy for the listener to identify each and sympathize or disagree with their stances. Stephen’s accent for Mildred definitely provides the listener with a good time. At first, they’ll sympathize with the character, before Stephen transforms her into a mindless monster. Then, she’ll become the book’s most hated character. Hoye should be praised for his abilities and Fahrenheit 451 exemplifies this to no need.
The most dramatic part of the book is likely the moment when Montag recites the poetry. The Dover Beach poem really hits home and awakens the women. Unfortunately, Hoye quickly switches back into the naïve firemen and sets the book alight. At this moment, Hoye really pours on the drama and pushes his abilities to the limit. Although he has been praised for his other works, Fahrenheit 451 will likely go down as one of Hoye’s best. If you’re destined to listen to one from his portfolio, it is highly recommended that you choose Fahrenheit 451!
The Book Passes the Test of Time
In today’s age, where cinematic graphics are all the rage, it is difficult for an old film to translate well for the modern viewer. In some regards, the same is true for books. Some old classics are too unrealistic and irrelevant for today’s society. This is certainly not the case with Fahrenheit 451. This book could easily translate to today’s society, where free speech is being questioned each and everyday. This 1954 “Retro” Hugo Award winner will definitely entrap the reader and keep them engaged for hours on end.
Of course, the audiobook is even better! Our main protagonist, Guy Montag, is just as naïve as ever! The “fireman” goes about his task of burning books, without disregard and fails to realize that he is needlessly destroying extremely valuable items, which could be used to educate, motivate and inspire. After a chance meeting with a youthful and energetic 17-year-old girl, Clarisse McClellan, Guy Montag changes his prospective entirely. His home life begins to fall apart and his drug-addicted wife, Mildred, begins to breakaway.
With Guy’s awakening, he takes a bold step and steals a book. He takes it home and stashes it under his pillow! After this, Montag begins to open up, educate himself and become familiar with the world around him. Without giving too much away, the book is undoubtedly a classic and the audiobook is a wonderful treat for anyone, who loves dystopian novels. The experience is enhanced even further thanks to the current societal distrust for the government. How long will it be, before the firemen enter homes around the country and begin a massive book burning expedition? Although the book is a work of fiction, it is quickly becoming a possibility in many people’s eyes.
At 5 hours and 39 minutes, the audiobook almost feels too short! With Stephen Hoye’s magnificent narration, the book comes to life, ensnares the listener and holds them captive throughout. Once it is all wrapped up, you’ll wish it ‘d lasted just a few hours longer. Of course, the memories and experience will stick with you for many years to come.
Overall
With the popularity of the Internet and mobile devices, audiobooks are growing increasingly prevalent. If you’re a fan and looking for a great audiobook, you will have innumerable options available to you, but it would be a terrible mistake to ignore Fahrenheit 451! The audiobook starts off a little slow, but it turns into a real delight along the way. In fact, it is interesting enough to keep even those with a short attention span contained.
Whether you’re washing dishes, sweeping the floor or running on a treadmill, the Fahrenheit 451 audiobook will keep you focused and entertained throughout. The book is undeniably a classic and the audiobook will also gain that recognition, thanks to a strong performance from Stephen Hoye. If you’ve got about 6 hours to spare, this one is well worth checking out! With audiobooks, who needs books anyway?
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